Since the first of the year, I have only been to the Glen Haven cabin five times. Mostly to check to be sure it is still there, but also to do fire mitigation and general property clean up. Before I arrived the cabin hadn’t been inhabited for over 13 years according to neighbors.
When I bought it the property was overgrown with tall dry grasses, firewood stacked next to the cabin, and many low tree branches. From the recent photos posted here, you can see there is currently no snow pack so it is very dry and susceptible to wildfire.
Right after purchasing the property in September, 2017, my son-in-law cut the tall dry grasses with a trimmer. I have raked years of pine needles and cones and removing them from the property. I have also trimmed several of the beautiful pine trees to decrease the risk of wildfire destroying the trees and the cabin on my mountain property. It is dirty and dusty work but necessary. According to the Colorado State Forest Service website, “Wildfire mitigation actions are on-the-ground treatments of forested properties implemented to reduce the threat of wildfire.”
The website directs land owners to initially:
- Properly thin and prune trees and shrubs within the defensible space
- Dispose of slash from tree/shrub thinning.
- Stack firewood uphill from or on the same elevation as any structures, or at least 30 feet away from structures.
- Screen attic, roof, eaves and foundation vents, and periodically check them to ensure that they are in good condition.
- Screen or wall-in stilt foundations and decks; screens should be 1/8-inch or smaller metal mesh (1/16-inch mesh is best).
- Post signs at the end of the driveway with your last name and house number that are noncombustible, reflective and easily visible to emergency responders.
- Make sure that the driveway is wide enough for fire trucks to enter and exit, and that trees and branches are adequately cleared for access by fire and emergency equipment.
After, Photo by slc
Annually land owners are to:
- Clear roof, deck and gutters of pine needles and other debris.
- Mow grass and weeds to a height of 6 inches or less.
- Rake all pine needles and other flammable debris away from the foundation of your home and deck.
- Remove trash and debris accumulations from the defensible space.
- Check fire extinguishers to ensure that they are not expired and are in good working condition.
- Check chimney screens to make sure they are in place and in good condition.
- Remove branches that overhang the roof and chimney.
- Dispose of slash from tree/shrub thinning.
I have raked up most of the vulnerable side of the property, the south side, but I have a lot left to do, including disposal of slash and pine needle piles. I’m not complaining though because I love being in the mountains and having my own peaceful sanctuary. Following wildfire mitigation practices, I hope I am doing all I can to protect my sanctuary from wildfire.
